18 Feb 2025

🚁FAA Airworthiness Directive on Airbus Helicopters 2025-03-01

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

Summary

The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021-04- 18, which applied to Airbus Helicopters Model EC225LP helicopters. AD 2021-04-18 required repetitively inspecting the bearing in the swashplate assembly of certain main rotor (M/R) mast assemblies and, depending on the findings, replacing the M/R mast assembly. AD 2021-04- 18 also prohibited installing those M/R mast assemblies unless certain requirements were met. Since the FAA issued AD 2021-04-18, it was determined that additional M/R mast assemblies are affected by the same unsafe condition and that it is necessary to distinguish the affected part numbers between M/R mast assemblies and mast swashplate assemblies. This AD continues to require the actions specified in AD 2021-04-18 and adds additional part-numbered M/R mast assemblies and distinguishes the affected part numbers between M/R mast assemblies and mast swashplate assemblies, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. This AD also clarifies the possible consequences that could result from the unsafe condition and clarifies a requirement. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Agencies

  • Transportation Department
  • Federal Aviation Administration

Business Impact ?

$$$ - High

The regulation introduces compliance requirements for Airbus Helicopters Model EC225LP, affecting operational costs and maintenance schedules for affected owners and operators. The estimated costs for inspections and potential corrective actions could significantly impact financial planning for affected businesses.

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